Ok so you have probably heard this phrase before, but have you thought about what it really means?
No, it doesn’t mean go on a shopping spree, go to the spa, or spend hours at the salon for the latest do, although that does sound nice doesn’t it?
It means do the things you need and want to do to be better: a better person, a better partner, a better parent, a better teacher, a better business owner.
Improve on your knowledge and skills. Stay on top of whatever technology you use on a daily basis in your business or in your day-to-day life. New gadgets and new information become available all the time, and if you don’t stay “in the know” you may just fall behind. Keeping up is easier than catching up.
There are countless newsletters, webinars, seminars, books, articles, and such out there on every topic under the sun. All of these can provide very useful information to help you expand your knowledgebase. If you are a business owner, think about how any of these could add value to your business.
Yes we are all busy and yes we could use more time in our day, but taking just 30 minutes a day, or even a few times a week, can do wonders. What a simple way to invest in yourself. And it really isn’t that hard when you think about it.
The time doesn’t necessarily need to be in 30 minute blocks either. Five to ten minutes here and there can give you the same benefits. Everyone has a few minutes throughout the day, several times in the day, that could be put to better use. All it takes is a little self-discipline and opportunity.
To start with, make printed materials easily available to yourself. A book or article set out on the coffee table or on the kitchen counter in plain view may better inspire you to pick it up to read during commercials, or while dinner is cooking. Perhaps you like reading while soaking in the tub. Then leave the romance novel alone for a night and grab the latest issue of that tech magazine that you have been meaning to check out. Or throw it in your lunch bag to peruse on your break.
Prefer webinars or seminars? Find the ones that interest you then commit by registering. Let everyone in your immediate life know that you will be unavailable on this date at this time. Set a reminder on your computer and/or your cell phone so you don’t forget. If it is a webinar or teleseminar, be at your computer or by the telephone at least 10 minutes before it starts so you can prepare paper and pen and your mind. If it is a seminar being held at a particular location, make sure you know where you are going and leave in plenty of time to arrive for check in, find a good seat, and prepare. Give yourself some time when it is done too to finish your notes, collect your thoughts, or discuss with other participants.
Have an IPod or MP3 player? Look for oral books, articles and magazines, as well as prerecorded webinars and seminars, to download. Listen while you are commuting to work, travelling, exercising, or just relaxing.
Still not convinced you have the time to invest in yourself? Then here is a little test. Grab a small notebook that will fit in your pocket or purse and a pen. As you go through the next 3 days of your life every time you are sitting idle, or looking for something to do, grab that notebook. Write down the day, the time, and how much time you had right then to spare. You will be surprised to learn that you do have that few minutes here and there to invest in yourself.
Think about getting up a few minutes earlier in the morning too now and again. Or skip the late night news once in a while. It will be worth it.
You deserve to be the best person you can be. Invest in yourself!